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How Divya Deshmukh can become Grandmaster by winning FIDE Women's Chess World Cup 2025
Divya Deshmukh was the first to reach the final of 2025 Women's World Cup. FIDE
Divya Deshmukh made history on Wednesday by becoming the first Indian ever to reach the final of the FIDE Women's World Cup 2025. The 19-year-old International Master stunned veteran Chinese Grandmaster Tan Zhongyi with a 1.5-0.5 victory in the semifinals in Batumi, Georgia.
This incredible feat has also secured her a spot in next year's prestigious Women's Candidates Tournament, where she will fight for the right to challenge reigning world champion Ju Wenjun. Meanwhile, Divya also has an opportunity to take a major step in her career by becoming India's next Grandmaster (GM).
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How winning the World Cup helps Divya in her GM dream
Becoming a GM is one of the toughest achievements in chess. A player needs to earn three GM norms from FIDE-approved tournaments and a rating of over 2500. Without meeting both these conditions, a player cannot receive the title.
Divya has already earned one GM norm by reaching the Women's World Cup final. Even if she crosses the 2500 rating, she will need two more GM norms to earn the prestigious title.
However, there's another way to the GM title, known as Direct Titles. According to FIDE, winning certain elite competitions allows players to avoid the usual norm-and-rating requirements. The Women's World Cup is one of those events. Winning it gives a player an automatic GM title.
Divya is slated to meet compatriot Koneru Humpy in the final of the Women's World Cup. So, if she defeats Humpy in the summit clash, the Indian IM will become a GM without waiting for norms or rating.
Also Read: 'I just need some sleep and food': Divya Deshmukh's first reaction after making history at FIDE World Cup
What if Divya loses the final?
Even if Divya loses in the final, she can still help her cause. She has already secured one GM norm by reaching the final. She only needs to cross the 2500 rating mark. After that, she would need two more GM norms in future tournaments to officially become a Grandmaster.
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